Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is one of the world’s oldest medical systems, tracing its origins back over two thousand years. The earliest known record of TCM is the *Huangdi Neijing* (Yellow Emperor’s Inner Canon), compiled in the 3rd century BCE.
TCM is a medical system founded on the principle of the **body’s innate capacity for self-healing**, which is also the fundamental principle guiding **Juvenex** product development. The TCM system encompasses several branches: acupuncture, herbal medicine, massage (Tui Na), dietary therapy, and Qigong. **Juvenex** focuses specifically on the field of **herbal medicine**, aiming to **regulate reproductive symptoms using natural herbs** and support the body in maintaining optimal health.
Passed down through generations, TCM has become an integral part of our daily lives. In this article, we will explore the earliest stages of TCM and trace its historical development.
Early History of TCM
The origins of TCM can be traced back to China’s ancient Shang Dynasty (16th-11th century BCE). In this era characterized by belief in deities and spirits, shamans used oracle bones (scapulimancy or plastromancy) to interpret ancestral will.
The discovery of stone and bone needles in Shang Dynasty tombs provides internationally accepted evidence that acupuncture existed during this period. Subsequently, during the Warring States period (475-221 BCE), various foundational TCM principles and doctrines emerged.
TCM in the Han Dynasty
The Han Dynasty spanned from 206 BCE to 220 CE. It is believed that the *Huangdi Neijing* was compiled during this era. This text represents the earliest written record of TCM and contains its core principles, such as *qi* (vital energy), yin and yang, and the Five Elements. This classic remains a vital component of TCM history and a crucial reference for practitioners today.
The formulation of **Juvenex’s Egg Growth Formula: Yangchao Decoction (Nourishing Ovarian Decoction)**, also began to take shape during this period. (Based on foundational formulas from the *Huangdi Neijing*, it was used to regulate menstruation and promote ovulation, improving the ovarian environment through specific herbal combinations).
Later, the Yangchao Decoction incorporated “Red Dates” (*Da Zao*) from the Wenjing Decoction (a millennia-old formula for nourishing the ovaries) found in the *Shang Han Lun* (Treatise on Cold Damage Diseases). To this day, “Red Dates” remain a key component in **Juvenex’s Egg Growth Formula**.
TCM in the Tang Dynasty
The Tang Dynasty ruled China from 618 to 907 CE. During this period, TCM was highly revered and practiced extensively among both the common people and the ruling class. The Tang Dynasty also experienced significant trade and cultural exchange with other nations, including India and the Middle East, leading to the introduction of new ideas and techniques into TCM.
The first systematic compendium of TCM, *Qianjin Yaofang* (Essential Formulas Worth a Thousand Gold Pieces), was written during the Tang Dynasty by Sun Simiao. Sun Simiao identified primary causes of infertility as deficiency of vital essence (*jing*) or insufficiency of yang energy. He affirmed the yang-warming efficacy of “Chinese Yam” (*Shan Yao*). The inclusion of this ingredient contributed to the widespread dissemination of the Yangchao Decoction among both the populace and the ruling class.
TCM in the Ming and Qing Dynasties
During the Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368 CE to 1912 CE), TCM underwent significant codification and standardization. The most important contribution of the Ming Dynasty was the publication of the *Bencao Gangmu* (Compendium of Materia Medica) by Li Shizhen. This monumental work details the properties, indications, and uses of over 1,800 medicinal substances, including herbs, minerals, and animal products. It is regarded by practitioners as the most authoritative reference in TCM.
The medical education system expanded during the Ming and Qing periods, with medical schools established in various regions. This led to the standardization of curricula, covering subjects such as anatomy, physiology, pathology, herbal medicine, acupuncture, and other TCM treatment methods.
During this era, facilitated by cultural exchange with missionaries, merchants, and diplomats, TCM development, including the Yangchao Decoction, extended beyond China’s borders.
Modern TCM
Moving into the 20th century and beyond, there has been growing scientific interest in understanding the mechanisms of various TCM techniques. As research deepens, we see an increasing number of studies examining the efficacy of TCM in supporting the treatment of a wide range of health conditions.
Alongside the growing global interest in complementary and natural medicine, TCM has experienced significant growth worldwide. This has led to increased collaboration and exchange between TCM and conventional medical experts, fostering advancement within the field.